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Spring Packing List for Quebec

As the snow starts to melt and the weather warms up, spring is a beautiful time to visit the province of Quebec. However, with unpredictable weather patterns and varying temperatures, tourists must pack wisely for this trip, without overpacking too! To properly prepare you, here’s my spring packing list for Quebec for anyone who is coming to visit our great province.

CTMA ferry to the Magdalen Islands

The Classics to Pack No Matter the Trip

As I’ve mentioned in previous packing articles, preparing for a trip can be both thrilling and daunting, particularly when trying to balance between packing everything you need and avoiding excess luggage.

To simplify this process and boost your confidence, I’ve put together a comprehensive general Quebec packing list you can see here, and add on these spring specialties. This image can also be used as your starting point before diving into the specifics for each season!

Quebec Packing List for Travel by Chasing Poutine
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Clothing for Spring in Quebec

  • Layered Clothing – Layered clothing allows you to adjust your outfits according to the changing temperatures and keep you comfortable. Be sure to pack a mix of light and heavy layers, such as t-shirts, sweaters, and jackets. Also, consider packing a waterproof and windproof jacket, as Spring in Quebec can bring unexpected rain and wind, but you can also get 30 degrees Celsius in May. Yup, that’s nuts, I know!
  • Warm Accessories – Nighttime can be a whole different story during spring in Quebec. As soon as sun sets, it can get cold. Be sure to pack warm accessories like scarves, hats, and gloves to keep you warm and cozy for the remaining chilly days. These items will also come in handy if you plan to take a trip to the mountains or do any outdoor activities.
  • Comfortable Walking ShoesQuebec is an excellent destination for exploring on foot, whether it’s the historic streets of Old Quebec or the beautiful parks and trails. Therefore, it is important to pack comfortable walking shoes with good traction. Consider packing waterproof shoes as well, especially if you plan on doing some outdoor activities like hiking.
  • Umbrella/Rain Gear – As mentioned before, spring in Quebec can bring unexpected rain and showers. It is always a good idea to pack an umbrella or a raincoat to protect yourself from the rain. You may need one while exploring the city, as most attractions are outdoors.
Magdalen Islands cliffs in spring

For more resources about travel packing for a trip to Quebec, visit my packing essentials page.

Accessories to Bring Along

  • Sun Protection – While spring tends to be cooler than summer, the sun can still be harsh on your skin. Be sure to pack sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun’s rays.
  • Adaptors/Chargers – Don’t forget to pack your adaptors and chargers when travelling to Quebec. The electrical outlets in Canada are different from those in European countries, but they are the same if you are from the Rest of Canada or the US. Consider investing in a universal travel adaptor to avoid any inconvenience.
  • Camera/BinocularsQuebec is a picturesque destination with stunning landscapes, charming cities, and diverse wildlife. Don’t miss the opportunity to capture these moments with a good camera. If you are interested in birdwatching or spotting wildlife, pack a pair of binoculars as well.
  • Waterproof Bag – A waterproof bag will come in handy during outdoor activities or when exploring the city on a rainy day. It will protect your belongings, such as your phone, camera, and wallet, from getting wet. You can also use it to store any wet clothes or shoes to keep the rest of your belongings dry. And think how useful it will be when kayaking in Tadoussac!
  • Games/Toys- Quebecers love spending time outdoors, so if you have any favourite games, sports, or activities you like doing at home (like fishing), be sure to bring them on your trip to Quebec. The locals will be intrigued, and it’s a great way to spark up some conversations.
Spring in Quebec City packing list - Joy Real - Unsplash
Photo: Joy Real – Unsplash

Essentials for a Spring Packing List for Quebec

  • French Translation App – Although most people in Quebec’s tourist destinations can speak English, the locals will appreciate having some basic French phrases and expressions. Consider packing a French phrase book or download a translation app to help you communicate better during your trip.
  • Cash/Credit & Debit Cards – It’s always a good idea to have some cash in Canadian dollars when travelling to Quebec. Although credit and debit cards are widely accepted, having some cash on hand will be useful for smaller, specific purchases such as farmers’ markets, street performers, and local kiosks like cream trucks.
  • Medications – If you take any prescribed medications, be sure to pack them with you. It’s always better to have more than you need in case of any delays or unexpected situations. Refilling foreign prescriptions could be very difficult, given Canada’s and Quebec’s stricter healthcare regulations.
  • Toiletries and Personal Hygiene Products – Of course, pack your essential toiletries like a toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, and soap, or confirm your accommodations will provide them. Additionally, pack any personal hygiene products you prefer over local offerings, as they may differ from your hometown.
Kayak on the water - Γ‰tang-du-Nord, Magdalen Islands

With these essential items in your luggage, you will be well prepared for your adventure in this charming province. Don’t forget to pack some good energy and a sense of adventure, and you are all set to have an unforgettable spring trip to Quebec.

Here are a few more resources to help you make the best of your trip to Quebec besides this spring packing list for Quebec:

Looking for Tours, Activities and Planned Outings?

When I look for things to do in my destination, I always have a look at Viator, GetYourGuide, Manawa and sometimes even Expedia. It’s first off a great way to find out what there is to do, but always a quick and easy method to book cheaply and efficiently with these renowned platforms.

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Packing Essentials / Trip Planner
About Author

Passionate about travel and food, Jennifer DorΓ© Dallas is a freelance travel writer, author and creator since 2010. On top of this amazing Chasing Poutine blog, she also founded Moi, mes souliers in 2010 and she is the author/co-author of around two dozen Lonely Planet, Ulysse and Parfum d'encre travel guidebooks, in addition to having contributed to other books and hundreds of tourism and Web platforms, magazines, DMOs and Websites over the years. As a lecturer in Web writing and SEO for a Quebec college and consultant for various companies and DMOs, she loves combining technological advances with the classic beauty of words, and is a member of TMAC, SATW, NATJA and IFTWTA!

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